The moment Caelum processed Lyanna's calm, sharp words, the naturally rigid Beta experienced a sudden shift in perspective.
He realized beneath his tough exterior that he had perhaps allowed his long-standing prejudice to dictate his actions, causing him to judge her strategic capabilities far too quickly.
Instead of immediately shutting her down with his typical hostility, he deliberately decided to suppress his impatience and actually listen to what she had to say before passing any further judgment.
He leaned his heavy upper body back into his iron seat, his naturally cold, stern face remaining completely unreadable as he locked eyes with her.
"Go on, Luna," he stated, his gruff voice carrying a rare, controlled level of professional courtesy.
Lyanna offered the council members a small, knowing smile and smoothly continued to elaborate on her thoughts.
